Chinook Scenic Byway
Details
- DesignationAll-American Road (1998)
- Intrinsic QualitiesScenic
- LocationWA
- Length92 miles
Overview
Traveling through the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and Mount Rainier National Park, this byway allows visitors to experience the diverse landscape of the Central Cascades. Flower-studded meadows, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, dense forests and impressive rock formations can be found along the route. The byway follows Chinook Pass on the north side of the park starting in Enumclaw and ending in Naches along SR-410.
-
Enumclaw Chamber of Commerce
Story of the Byway
At the start of the bypass, the 14,410-foot Mount Rainier reigns over the mighty Cascade Mountains and has been the spiritual center and focus of local Native American culture for thousands of years. The route, also known as the Stephen Mather Memorial Parkway,features paths carved by the White, Greenwater, American and Naches rivers over many years. The byway traverses the northeast corner of the mighty mountain’s national park along the corridor between Naches and Enumclaw. The diverse landscape varies from the open views of talus and basaltic rock formations in the east to the dense forest and vegetative cover in the west. Sixty-three mammal species call the byway home including mountain goats, elk and coyotes. More than 160 species bird can also be spotted in the area.
Driving Directions
Start in Enumclaw, approximately 40 miles southeast of Seattle along the Mather Memorial Highway (SR-410). Head east toward Federation Forest State Park, about 18 miles into the drive. The town of Greenwater is just after the park. Your first glimpse of majestic Mount Rainier comes in another five miles. After driving over Chinook P ass, you’ll come to Cliffdell in the Wenatchee National Forest. Just over 25 miles later, you’ll reach Naches, the byway’s endpoint. Note: Between the approximately the end of November and the end of May, the Chinook Pass is closed from just beyond milepost 57 to milepost 74.
Points of Interest
-
Crystal Mountain Resort
· A four-season destination for stunning views, mountaintop dining, alpine lakes, gondola rides
-
Sun Top Lookout
A 360-degree view of the Cascades, the Olympic Mountains and Mount Baker from a former fire lookout, 3,000 feet above the White River
-
Mount Rainier National Park
Its namesake is an active volcano and also the most glaciated peak in the continental United States, year-round activities in a variety of terrain
Itinerary
-
Explore Mt. Rainier National Park
Begin your journey along the Chinook Scenic Byway in the City of Enumclaw along WA-410 and head east. You will immediately find yourself in lush forests that are absolutely beautiful to look at. Your first chance to stop and view the area can be at Federation Forest State Park right before the community of Greenwater. Continue past Greenwater to take in one of the most gorgeous mountains in the entire United States at the Mt. Rainier Overlook. The Byway continues from here south directly into the heart of Mt. Rainier National Park, leading to so many different opportunities.
Hiking Trails can be found just about anywhere along this Byway and taking a trip up one of the many mountains is honestly encouraged. Before the road makes its way back east, the Byway takes you over the Cayuse Pass and the Chinook Pass and Overlook. This is the hub of many campgrounds and recreational areas, so make sure to explore!
As you keep driving along the Byway you will continue to take in incredibly gorgeous views, this time it is the Norse Wilderness and Norse Peak. There are access roads and trails to get near the beautiful Bumping Lake and River, which waters are so clear you will be in awe. To end your day and journey, stop by the Boulder Cave Nature Trail which is located right outside of Cliffdell. There are so many different ways to experience this beautiful area, and this Byway is the perfect way to help you out!
Update this byway information today!